An exploration of the landscape we live in and learn in. As seen from the eyes of a landscape architect in Portland Oregon. This blog investigates creative playgrounds, playscapes, and natural play areas to find the most innovative and interesting examples to share.

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Friday, March 22, 2013

Universally Accessible Nature Themed Play Area

It was a cool March morning, but the sand and water area at Harper's Playground was packed! Kids were sliding down all sides of the 'grassy' hill. From a distance the play area looked peaceful and really fun. My daughter ran for it across the lawn.

Harper's Playground - Portland Oregon

" Harper’s Playground will build community by providing an inclusive playground at Arbor Lodge Park where children and adults of all abilities can play together."

- The Harper's Playground Mission

The playground is beautiful and well laid out. Every feature is accessible or has an accessible type. An artificial turf grass surfacing was used in some of the use zones. I thought it would look pretty fake. But, with all the action of the kids and other design features it melted to the background really well. There are lots of different types of play (including just exploring and running around, which seems to be ever popular). The central mound with the slide is a really great feature. It adds topography and interest to the overall design.

What a beautiful asset for this City of Portland Park. Project Partners included Place Studios, Walsh Construction and lots of other donors.

2 comments:

I love how the slides are just a part of the hill. The flow of this entire landscape is awesome. I really like the rock set up as well. I would love to set up something like this in my neighborhood.Bill | http://www.masterlandscape.net

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About Michelle

My interests in nature, education, and design overlap in learning landscapes. I am inherently drawn to them. I hope this is a place where I can organize and share my thoughts, ideas and inspiration.
I have over 10 years of experience in recreation, park, nature play and school design at GreenWorks landscape architecture in Portland Oregon. We work on a wide variety of projects through a sustainable design lens.